GL events UK Seating and Stadia teams recently worked together to complete a significant refurbishment project of Blackpool FC’s East Stand.
Delivery of this project means the structure can continue to serve fans for many years to come.
Originally constructed in 2010 as a temporary grandstand with a permanent roof by Slick Seating Systems—now known as Stadia by GL events—the stand has come full circle, with some of the original team returning to Bloomfield Road to breathe new life into it. For 15 years it has withstood the harsh sea air on the Fylde Coast, which caused the plywood decking to deteriorate over time, rendering parts of the structure unsafe and unusable. While a full replacement was initially considered, Blackpool FC instead turned to Seating & Stadia for a more cost-effective refurbishment solution.
Phase 1 of the refurbishment has completely revitalised the existing structure. Our Seating & Stadia teams installed 4,797 brand-new seats and 26 media positions, each equipped with bespoke desks. The project also involved replacing all decking with robust aluminium riser units and intermediate steps, while the original galvanised seat frames were refurbished and fitted with new mouldings in the club’s iconic Tangerine colour. To enhance matchday broadcast capabilities, a new suspended TV gantry was also designed and installed.
It was incredibly rewarding to return to Bloomfield Road and be part of this refurbishment—especially as some of us were involved in the original installation back in 2010. There’s a real sense of pride in helping to extend the longevity of a structure we first brought to life 15 years ago.
Chris Mansell
Managing Director, Seating & Stadia
This upgrade not only returns the stand to full operational use but is expected to extend its lifespan by another 15–20 years. The work was delivered to provide immediate impact, while laying the foundation for future developments.
Looking ahead, Seating & Stadia is working with Blackpool FC and the appointed architects to deliver the next phases of the development. Phase 2 will see the addition of toilet facilities and food and beverage outlets within the newly created space beneath the stand, while Phase 3 will focus on creating a new public realm, featuring a dedicated fan zone for both home and away supporters, along with enhanced outside broadcast facilities.
Stadium refurbishment
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